Whitney and Perry hold a special place in their hearts for the historic Hotel Del Coronado outside San Diego, California. Early in the couple’s relationship, they ventured to the hotel for vacation. That’s when Whitney first declared her love for Perry. After getting engaged, the couple had no doubts that Hotel Del would have to be included!

“It felt absolutely right to come full circle and celebrate our biggest day there,” Whitney says. “It was like the hotel was part of our story from the very beginning.”

Beyond having a personal connection with the venue, Whitney and Perry needed the space to be able to accommodate over 400 guests. The “nice-to-haves” were outdoor settings by the water, a spacious reception area for dinner, dancing and the ultimate afterparty. Hotel Del had it all… and more!

“We fell in love with a venue that felt like its own little world, offering a range of accommodations from chic modern rooms to luxurious suites and villas, which really elevated the whole weekend,” the bride says.

A Kentucky gal at heart, Whitney wanted her and Perry’s special day to reflect the most iconic things about the southern state… starting with the Kentucky Derby, of course!

“We decided to capture that spirit by having a talented bugler perform the ‘call to post’ at the end of our Twilight Reception,” Whitney explains. “This is a signature moment at the Derby, signaling the start of the race. In our case, it beautifully announced the transition from the ceremony in the Crown Room to our garden reception.”

Of course, nothing quite says “Kentucky” and luxe Southern style quite like bold colors, gold and animal prints! From the start, the couple’s designer, Alex, “tuned into what makes us tick,” as the bride says. “Although I initially imagined a wedding with soft pinks and abundant florals, Alex opened our eyes to a palette that felt more ‘us’—including hot pinks, black accents, disco balls, and animal prints. We fell in love with the idea immediately.” The couple also made sure to communicate an imperative tribute they wanted to be worked into the decor and details – their three cats. Let’s just say, their vendor team did NOT disappoint (but, more on that later). 

Whitney and Perry envisioned an event that would escalate throughout the evening. Come wedding weekend, that is exactly what they received. The celebration began with the ceremony set in the famous Crown Ballroom, an enchanting space built in 1888, now adorned with crown-shaped chandeliers. 

“The ceremony had a regal vibe, featuring a mirrored runway and a grand crown motif above us,” the bride says. “Our vows were personal and filled with inside jokes, moving our guests from laughter to tears—a true reflection of our journey together.”

The fun continued as guests were ushered outdoors to a cocktail hour with custom cat-themed cocktails, featuring the couple’s fur babies on the drink menu. The couple then led a mini parade to the reception, led by a golf cart blasting Lizzo, with guests dancing along, and playing mini instruments. 

Arriving at a grand ballroom decked out in rosey hues from the furniture to the cascading flowers, the guests were awe-struck by the grand reception.

“But the real standout was our ‘Taco Del’ stand, a playful twist combining our love for Taco Bell with the elegance of Hotel Del. The tacos, wrapped in custom ‘Taco Del’ wrappers, were a quirky and beloved feature,” the couple says.

From the cat-inspired art to the glitter and champagne-themed decor inspired by Ashley Longshore, every detail of the couple’s Hotel Del wedding screamed “Whitney and Perry.” 

“Our wedding wasn’t just a day to remember—it was a true expression of our personalities, down to the last detail,” the bride says. 

The couple wants to communicate the importance of prioritization whilst managing your budget. They remind others planning their destination weddings to “keep in mind where you can afford to splurge and where you might need to cut back.” Whitney adds, “And, speaking of savings—don’t worry, we made sure to set aside something for our cats’ future, just in case they decide they want to go to college after all!”

Vendors: Photographer: Lorin Kelly; Wedding Planner: JScot Reid; Venue: Hotel Del; Florist and Designer: Blush Event Designers; Stationery: Jasmin Ramos; Hair & Makeup: Whitney Destiny Beauty; Gown Designer: Ashley Lauren; Tuxes: Suit Supply; Production: Amber Event Production; Dance Floor, Stage, Backdrop Walls: Barker Decor Service; Linen: BBJ La Tavola; China, Flatware, and Stemware: Casa de Perrin; Custom Decor/Furniture and Rentals: Edge Design Decor; Ceremony Aisle, Stage & Rentals: Hire Elegance; Entertainment: Republic of Music; Rentals: MTB Event Rentals